Most bookies seeing Jonker as favourite

WARY of history repeating, UBET bookmakers failed to overreact in the wake of yesterday’s barrier draw for the Magic Millions 2YO Classic.

Most agencies made Jonker the new favourite after he drew gate three (he will most likely start from gate two when emergencies come out), but UBET kept local hope Ef Troop (18) and two-time Gold Coast winner Sunlight (15) at the head of betting despite their double-digit draws.

If the emergencies don’t get a run, the pair will start side by side in 12 and 13.

“It’s got a sense of deja vu about it this race,” UBET’s Gerard Daffy said.

“The same thing happened last year. From Within drew well and became the new favourite and Houtzen drew off the track and it eased in betting. On the day, there was a stack of money for Houtzen and she duly landed the prize.

“I do think barrier draws can be overplayed. I can’t see punters abandoning ship with Ef Troop and I expect he will still start favourite.”

Filly Sunlight’s trainer Tony McEvoy said he was not disappointed with the draw.

“That barrier with her speed allows her to take her time to go forward and she will be right on the back of whatever is the speed,” he said.